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Sebastien Chabal has turned down lucrative contract offers from clubs in France and signed a new two-year deal with Sale Sharks.

Chabal was Philippe Saint-Andre’s first signing for Sale in 2004, and in the last three years the powerful number eight has become a cult hero at Edgeley Park.

“I have enjoyed my time in England and am able to get on with playing rugby, which I enjoy,” said Chabal. “If I lived and played in France, I think my wife would go crazy with all the supporter attention I receive there.”

Sale lost Jason Robinson to retirement in the summer but recruited ambitiously, with New Zealand centre Luke McAlister joining after the World Cup on a two year-contract.

Sale chief executive James Jennings said: “Sebastian Chabal’s decision to stay at Sale Sharks is testament to how world-class players like ‘Seabass’ view Sale as a more attractive option than other leading European clubs.

“Sebastian Chabal is currently the best known and most popular sports personality in France, but he has opted to commit his future to Sale for the next two years at least.

“We are delighted that ‘Seabass’ is staying with the club and look forward to enjoying many more seasons of his dynamic and attacking style of play.”